Benefits of Nature

Time in nature offers protective health benefits and additional advantages from increased physical outdoor activity. Connecting with nature on a deeper level can enhance these benefits, provide a sense of place, and encourage stewardship behaviors. These advantages help to offset disease risk factors and improve healthy lifestyle choices. Did you know that in some areas, physicians are partnering with local parks and writing “nature prescriptions” for their patients? So let’s get started with improving health through nature!

Getting Started

Set a Goal. Research recommends spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature and at least 150-300 minutes of moderate physical activity a week, but getting started is what matters most. Determine your goal, then set yourself up for success by making a commitment that seems achievable. Once successful, you can slowly increase your initial short-term goal.

Choose an activity. Choose something that you’ll enjoy, an activity that sounds fun and safe. That may be a group or solo outing, a volunteer service project, or a citizen science activity. The more you enjoy what you’re doing, the more likely you will sustain choosing time in nature. Not sure what you’ll enjoy? Give something a try, you can always try something different until you find what you enjoy!

Choose a place. Whether you love nature, are an outdoor enthusiast, or need encouragement to get started, whether you enjoy spending time alone or with others, there are nature-based opportunities for all ages, interests, and abilities in Sarasota County. See below for some options.

Slow down and connect. Active time in nature has many benefits but choose an activity that allows you to slow down and connect with nature, not just hike from point A to B or play an outdoor sport. Use your senses to immerse yourself in the moment. These deeper moments of connection can enhance a sense of peace, calm, and decreased stress… something we all need more of!

Where to go: Nature is Everywhere!

You can start in your backyard or neighborhood, or venture out to our city, county, and state parks that may provide larger areas of green or blue space and greater biodiversity.

Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources has over 140 sites to choose from, including more than 50,000 acres of natural areas. Some sites are even on public transit Breeze bus routes. Learn more about access to Sarasota County beaches.

Our county boasts two amazing Florida State Parks with a variety of amenities for both day and overnight exploration or choose from another 173 Florida State Parks to explore.

Our local cities of Sarasota, Venice, and North Port also provide green space opportunities.

Accessibility options: There are a variety of accessibility options to explore and connect with nature in Sarasota County. Check out these online articles to learn more: https://curbfreewithcorylee.com/2022/01/23/wheelchair-accessible-sarasota-florida/ and https://www.visitsarasota.com/accessible-travel-sarasota

What to Do

Nature-based Opportunities with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County

Guided nature walks: EcoWalks are 2-hour nature walks guided by UF/IFAS Extension educators and volunteers in a variety of our county’s natural areas. Learn more and register here. Find additional guided walks and other programs in the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources online event guide.

Outdoor mindfulness opportunities: Meditation walks are a special 1-hour, mostly silent, contemplative EcoWalk based on the tradition of “forest bathing”. These walks provide an opportunity for a more immersive, connected experience utilizing all our senses to be present in the moment. Learn more and register here. Other organizations and individuals may offer beach yoga, outdoor tai chi, and other quiet nature-based practices.

Natural Areas Story Maps: Virtually experience a guided trail walk at some of the most unique and precious natural areas within Sarasota County. Enjoy photos and interpretive content on-site on your mobile device or from a device anywhere, and learn about each site’s history, habitats, and the plants and animals that live there.

Agents of Discovery: This is one time when we recommend screen time! Learn while playing and getting active outdoors at select Sarasota County parks. Help Field Agent Forest Parker solve nature-based challenges and complete the mission to achieve your digital badge. Play on your own or bring your Special Agents to join us for in-person events.

Eco-Explorer Backpack Kits: The collection of family-fun, Eco-Explorer backpack kits are designed to inspire eco-friendly living inside and out! These kits are a fun and educational option for families and relatives with visiting children. Developed by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County in partnership with Sarasota County Libraries, the Eco-Explorer backpack kits are available for free check-out with your library card at all Sarasota County Libraries locations. Each Eco-Explorer backpack kit contains all you’ll need to get started, including books, gear, and activities designed to inspire exploration for all ages. Kits include: Explore Your World, Insect Investigator, Family Green Living, and Wings in the Wild.

More Suggestions

Want to Learn More?

Read other blogs in the Nature and Health series.

Check out our Nature and Health webpage that provides even more tips and resources!

Learn more about youth and family-oriented opportunities offered by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.

Although having a lifelong passion for the environment, Zahir initially studied fashion design until an eye-opening gap semester traveling to Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand. It was there that she was challenged with new outdoor adventures, learned about Fijian, Aboriginal Australian, and Māori culture, and gained renewed appreciation for connection with the land. While traveling, she experienced a variety of sustainability and environmental issues first hand that presented her with the opportunity to examine her own behavior and contribution to harmful systems and ways of living. Since then, she has been dedicated to environmental education and environmental issues, as well as the related social issues and how humans connect with nature.

“Learning about nature and taking action to help protect our Earth is my passion! I am always looking for opportunities to increase my knowledge of our natural world.”

Turning a Passion into a Career

In 2019, Zahir completed a Master Naturalist course through the University of Maryland Extension Services, after which she was hired in her first formal environmental role as a summer educator, and then

remained on as a naturalist/educator where she provided public school programs, helped with the care of rescue animals, provided overnight camping experiences, and worked as an assistant forest preschool teacher.

After moving to Florida, history repeated itself. In 2023, Zahir took the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) Freshwater Systems Course hosted at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County. Unbeknown to her FMNP instructor, Dr. Katherine Clements, Zahir had applied online for an open position with Dr. Clements in the Ecology and Natural Resources Program. Being so impressed with Zahir during class, Dr. Clements suggested she apply for the position. When Zahir mentioned she already had applied, she was surprised to find out Dr. Clements never received her online application! Zahir reapplied, and she has been serving as the Ecology and Natural Resources program assistant at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County ever since!

In October 2024, after also completing the Coastal Systems course with Pinellas County, Zahir completed the third core FMNP course, Uplands Systems. She is now a certified Florida Master Naturalist! In her position with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, Zahir does youth and family programming about snakes, shell and shark teeth jewelry, mindfulness in nature, and educates about all other kinds of wildlife. She is also integral in providing our award-winning LIFE program to 4th and 5th grade students in Sarasota County.

“Master Naturalist Courses have given me amazing opportunities and connections and have resulted in 2 really awesome jobs for me! As soon as taking these courses, I have applied the knowledge to my own behavior and recreation, as well as sharing what I know with my friends and family.”

Learn by Doing: the Environment as a Classroom

Zahir’s favorite part of the Florida Master Naturalist Program courses is the hands-on learning elements provided by the field trip component.  From learning about tiny, carnivorous plants, called sundews, dotting the soil in the wetlands of Myakka River State Park to doing a presentation on dolphins from a canoe in a mangrove swamp at Weedon Island Preserve, these one-of-a-kind learning experiences are what truly made Zahir love this program.  Interested in taking a FMNP class? Zahir says do it!

”You will connect with others, deepen your passion for Florida’s environment, and learn how to live more sustainably and in harmony with our ecosystems here. You get to fully realize and see just how fortunate we are to live in this incredibly unique and special place.”

Become a Florida Master Naturalist!

Interested in joining a Florida Master Naturalist Program course to see what all the hype is about? Register for an available course near you, or learn more about the program. You can also apply for a scholarship here. Read a graduate success story to learn how this program impacts the lives of students and their communities. Stay in the know and find out when UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is offering FMNP courses! Sign up for Nature News, the Ecology and Natural Resources Program’s newsletter. Graduates from a FMNP class may also join their local Friends of FMNP group to continue learning, creating community, and supporting conservation locally! Friends events in Sarasota County are shared via our Nature News newsletter.

What is LIFE?

The Learning in Florida’s Environment (LIFE) program is a science-based educational experience that engages 4^th and 5^th grade students in Sarasota County in 1-hour preparatory in-class presentations followed by a 3-hour field trip. Through these LIFE experiences, students get special insight into the nature of science, Florida’s ecosystems, land management challenges, how we can decrease our environmental impact, and career opportunities in science and nature. Students participate in three ecosystem-specific, hands-on labs that are aligned to Florida State Science Standards and support teacher-identified curriculum needs for standardized test success. Historically, the LIFE program began in 2004 as a Department of Environmental Protection outreach program for middle school students. Starting in 2017, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County developed elementary curriculum and has been coordinating LIFE in our county in partnership with the Florida Park Service; Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources; and Big Waters Land Trust.

LIFE successes in 2024-25

In Fall 2024, Myakka River State Park (MRSP) hosted 23 LIFE field trips comprised of 841 students from 7 schools. 47% (397) of these students attend Title 1 schools. The Friends of Myakka River funded bus transportation to all participating Title 1 schools, providing support to students who otherwise may not have been able to attend. The Friends of Myakka River also funded a digital projecting microscope that enhanced the ability of students who were challenged to see plankton in their individual microscopes. At MRSP, students engaged in unique field labs, learning about macroinvertebrates and water quality, plankton and energy flow, and bird adaptations in a freshwater ecosystem. Overall, a 45% knowledge gain was demonstrated from students based on pre- and post-assessments. The largest area of growth was knowledge of bird adaptations where students demonstrated a 189% increase from pre- to post-assessment knowledge.

Was this fun? Yeah! -student

In Spring 2025, the LIFE program continued at Sarasota County’s Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center where 19 field trips were hosted, with 669 4^th and 5^th grade students attending from 6 different schools. At this site, students rotate through engaging field lab experiences focused on mangrove forests and estuaries, marine invertebrate taxonomy, and animal adaptations in coastal ecosystems. Based on student pre- and post-assessments, an overall 47% knowledge gain was demonstrated. Topics that saw notable growth in student’s understanding were the number of mangroves native to Florida, invertebrate taxonomy, and the importance of fire and prescribed burns to Florida’s ecosystem.

LIFE enhances knowledge, visitation to conservation areas, and models careers in science and nature

The LIFE trip was so awesome. My daughter has always wanted to be a veterinarian because she loves animals, but this field trip really expands the options for careers that involve animals and wildlife past the traditional careers that kids are exposed to. -parent of student attending LIFE

Beyond the experience and knowledge gained, one of the largest successes of this program is the number of students visiting these parks, without previous knowledge of them. Of the students who participated in the LIFE program, 84% indicated never having visited Lemon Bay Park prior to their LIFE field trip and 65% indicated not having visited Myakka River State Park previously. LIFE not only encourages students to engage in STEM fields, but also creates an interest in visiting these parks and exploring the natural world.

Teachers have repeatedly described the field trip as one of the best and most well-organized field trips they have been on.

Partners and Volunteers support success

These successes would not be possible without the efforts of our staff and volunteers. In the 2024-25 season, we had 10 volunteers that assisted at each field trip location. Volunteers attend from the Florida Park Service, Sarasota County, UF/IFAS Master Gardener Volunteer program, and the Florida Master Naturalist Program. Out of 13 unique volunteers assisting across both locations, a total of 588 hours of service were provided! Across both locations, a total of 8 UF/IFAS Extension faculty, 4 Florida State Parks Service staff, 3 PRNR-NAT staff, 1 staff from Big Waters Land Trust, and 13 volunteers generously gave their time and expertise to provide these award-winning, successful LIFE experiences for students.

Interested in having your Sarasota County student attend LIFE?

Have their 4th or 5th grade teacher or school administrator contact Dr. Katherine Clements at kclements@scgov.net. A limited number of field trips are available each year and most teachers schedule in August for the school year.

Learn about UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County’s opportunities for youth and their families.

Eastern Screech Owls are one of five native owl species found in Florida. They are our smallest owl, being only about 6-10 inches tall, with a wingspan of 18-24 inches. They are short and stocky, with red (rufous) or gray coloring, yellow eyes and yellowish beaks, and ear tufts. They are mostly active  at night, but can be seen at dusk, dawn, or during the day. They have a very unusual call that sounds (to me) more like a horse than an owl! Listen to their call here.

Where they live

Eastern Screech Owls are often found in agricultural areas, but are comfortable living in residential areas and neighborhood parks with trees. They are cavity nesters, but do not excavate their own nest, instead using holes abandoned by woodpeckers or squirrels or other cavities. The cavity opening is generally 3 inches in diameter. Eastern Screech Owls are one of the species of owls that will also nest in human-made boxes.

More About Them

Screech Owls mate for life, but males occasionally might mate with two females. Nesting begins in February or March. Females do not build a nest, but lays eggs in the cavity which they sometimes will add a few leaves or branches to. They will have one brood of 2-6 white eggs per year. Males will feed the female and nestlings. After about a month eggs hatch, and the nestlings will fledge about another month later. Fledglings continue to depend on their parents for another 8-10 weeks. These small owls will eat small mammals (such as rodents, rabbits, and bats), birds, worms, insects, fish, frogs, and lizards. Screech Owls can be preyed upon by larger owls and raptors, snakes, and medium-sized mammals, such as raccoons, opossums, and skunks.

How You Can Help

• Provide habitat by planting native trees, allow snags (dead trees) to remain standing when safe, and provide nesting boxes.
• Reduce use of pesticides and rodenticides, which decrease their prey and may cause secondary poisoning.
• Reduce light pollution at night.
• Keep cats indoors, as outdoor cats kill billions of birds in the U.S. each year.

Screech Owl Box Build

• Check out some of these resources for plans on how to build your own Screech-Owl box.
  • National Audubon Society Screech Owl box plans
  • NestWatch Screech Owl box plans
• Or join one of our DIY classes where we supply the pre-cut materials, tools needed, and assist you with the build. Check here for upcoming classes.

  

• If you choose to purchase a pre-made box online, make sure you compare them to the recommended plans in the resources above for better likelihood that your box will become inhabited.

Screech Owl Box Installation

Correct box installation is just as, if not more, important as correct construction to increasing the likelihood of an owl choosing your box to inhabit. There is no guarantee that an owl will choose your box, or how long it will take to become inhabited, but here are some tips on preferred installation methods:

• Mount securely on a tree trunk (preferably) as wide as the box, or on a post or building.
• Mount about 10 feet above the ground.
• Best to have a roosting branch nearby.
• Face entry hole away from strong winds, usually facing south or east with some available shade.
• You can add a small amount of wood chips, saw dust, hay, or leaves to bottom of box, but it is not necessary.

  

• If you have enough room, installing multiple boxes will increase opportunities for mating. Boxes should be about 100 feet apart from each other to allow enough territory for each owl or pair of owls.

  

Learn More About Owls

• Watch our Wild Sarasota webinar on Florida owls, and many more species, at our Florida Wildlife webpage.
• Enjoy information about a variety of bird species at Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s All About Birds website.
• Don’t forget to visit our local Sarasota Audubon Society and Venice Area Audubon Society.

Read all our Wild Sarasota blogs HERE

Florida Master Naturalist Courses Inspire a Life of Volunteerism and Nature Immersion

Like many Florida residents, Margaret Monti is a transplant. She relocated to southwest Florida in 2015 after a lifetime in the northeast, and quickly began learning about her new home by voraciously reading books on Florida’s environment.

Margaret was fortunate to be raised in a family that valued outdoor time, taking long walks in the woods, through fields and along beaches, which nurtured her lifelong love of the outdoors.

Upon her move, she became involved in her neighborhood HOA, and while removing Brazilian pepper trees one day along a shared property line with Oscar Scherer State Park, a chance meeting with then-Park Manager Tony Clements introduced her to the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP). She enrolled in the first core module less than a month after that meeting, and completed all three core modules within the year, achieving certification as a “Florida Master Naturalist.”

That was 2019, a year that catapulted her into a life of volunteerism and nature immersion.

Applying Knowledge to Community

Since completing the core modules, Margaret has put her newfound knowledge to work in many ways.

In 2020, she began volunteering in the Venice Urban Forest, a former railway site being transformed into nearly two miles of lush forest adjacent to the Venetian Waterway Park. In 2021, she was honored with the Volunteer Recognition Award for Land Preservation from Keep Sarasota County Beautiful, an award that recognizes efforts throughout the county that promote environmental stewardship and innovation through education and action.

Margaret also volunteered in various horticulture projects at Historic Spanish Point, Osprey Junction Trailhead Park, and Bay Preserve, the headquarters of Big Waters Land Trust (formerly Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast). She managed her HOA’s common areas for three years, including the stormwater retention ponds.

“The sky is the limit when it comes to participating in volunteer opportunities and lifelong learning about Florida’s nature,” Margaret said. “Working as a volunteer in nature is a gift I would like to give to future generations.”

Why take an FMNP Course?

When asked what she liked the most about the FMNP classes, Margaret said: “I better understood the Florida environment, took field trips to beautiful new places I hadn’t been before, and met so many interesting students and instructors.”

And, her advice to those looking at taking a FMNP class?

“You will look at the natural wonders of Florida with a greater appreciation and sense of awe,” she said. “It should be at the top of your list of experiences in Florida, especially if you are a newcomer. You will meet and connect with wonderful, interesting people from everywhere.”

“When I enrolled in the three core modules in 2019, I underestimated the benefits of taking these classes,” she continued. “I thought reading books and doing online research was suitable for learning everything I needed to know about my new home state. FMNP was what I should have done as soon as I moved here. The classes were well organized and presented and there was a good balance of classroom instruction, excellent speakers, field trips, and projects.

“FMNP inspires me to use my time wisely to preserve what Florida’s nature offers and to teach others about this special place where we live.”

Nature Brings Comfort and Peace in Times Of Difficulty

Sadly, Margaret lost her son in a tragic accident in 2019. She feels that having developed a deeper appreciation and understanding of nature at the beginning of that year was very helpful and spiritual after her great loss. Margaret shared: “The only place I found comfort and peace was in nature. Witnessing all the beauty around me helped soothe my soul on my new journey. I learned grief certainly takes its time while nature graciously softens some of the pain.”

Our connection to nature can provide an unexpected source of comfort and healing in times of small or great need.

Become a Florida Master Naturalist!

Interested in joining a Florida Master Naturalist Program course to see what all the hype is about? Register for an available course near you, or learn more about the program. You can also apply for a scholarship here. Read a graduate success story to learn how this program impacts the lives of students and their communities. Stay in the know and find out when UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is offering FMNP courses! Sign up for Nature News, the Ecology and Natural Resources Program’s newsletter. Graduates from a FMNP class may also join their local Friends of FMNP group to continue learning, creating community, and supporting conservation locally! Friends events in Sarasota County are shared via our Nature News newsletter.

Meet Bob Frank, Conservation Ambassador

Amateur photographer Bob Frank spent his career as a college professor in Ohio before retiring to Florida in 2019. He quickly became interested in learning more about what he was seeing on his photography forays and during his volunteer work at neighboring Oscar Scherer State Park. This curiosity led to his enrollment in the Upland Systems module of the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP), and he hasn’t looked at our unique habitats in the same way since.

“I look at Florida landscapes with a different eye for sure,” Frank said. “I better appreciate the ecology and hydrology of the landscapes where I work and play. This helps me locate interesting plants and animals when I’m doing my photography and hiking. I’ve also developed a greater appreciation for the beauty of wetlands and scrubby uplands.

Among the most memorable things he took away from the program was the interdependency of a wide variety of animals when faced with natural disasters, such as fire.  He knew of the importance of fire in maintaining critical habitat for the Florida scrub-jay, since he worked on the “Adopt a Scrub-Jay” program at Oscar Scherer State Park and often experienced smoke from prescribed burns as a nearby resident.  But, what he didn’t realize was the role gopher tortoises play in providing a safe haven for scores of other animals while fires burn overhead and to help re-set the environment for another cycle of growth and renewal. Now, when he photographs a gopher tortoise, he thinks of the wider role this keystone species plays in the natural ecological cycle.

FMNP Courses Create Ambassadors for Conservation

Armed with knowledge gained from the Florida Master Naturalist Program, Bob holds board positions with both Friends of Oscar Scherer State Park and Friends of Myakka River, serving as president in the latter. In these roles, he is acutely aware of the importance of preservation/conservation of our natural lands, and credits FMNP with instilling a conservation ethic in all who participate in the courses.

“It is critically important for people who care about natural Florida to be active now,” he said.

His advice to anyone interested in taking an FMNP course? “Do it! I promise you that the experience will be memorable!”

What’s next for Bob?

As chair of his community’s environmental committee, he is keen to share his knowledge with fellow residents and encourage them to embrace the management needs of neighboring Oscar Scherer State Park. Beyond that, he’s working diligently to expand the reach of the Friends of Myakka River to preserve the boundaries of that park so it can continue to support its plethora of flora and fauna. His overarching goal? “To be a better ambassador for natural Florida,” he said, “so it will be here to enjoy in the future.”

Become a Florida Master Naturalist!

Interested in joining a Florida Master Naturalist Program course to see what all the hype is about? Register for an available course near you, or learn more about the program. You can also apply for a scholarship here. Read a graduate success story to learn how this program impacts the lives of students and their communities. Stay in the know and find out when UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is offering FMNP courses! Sign up for Nature News, the Ecology and Natural Resources Program’s newsletter. Graduates from an FMNP class may also join their local Friends of FMNP group to continue learning, creating community, and supporting conservation locally! Friends events in Sarasota County are shared via our Nature News newsletter.

Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) helps young professionals round out their skills

Biologist Chelsea Dinon lives to go cave diving in Florida’s natural springs. A Florida resident since elementary school, Chelsea has maintained a lifelong interest in natural resources. Learning more about Florida’s springs was the primary reason she pursued a graduate  degree in cell and molecular biology. Most of her experience with natural resources on the macro level was grounded in northern Florida. When Chelsea took a job as stormwater project manager with Sarasota County Public Works, she turned to the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) to learn more about Sarasota’s local flora and fauna. The Freshwater Systems core module, led by Dr. Katherine Clements, was the perfect fit for her goals. “As a project manager, it’s important to know native flora and fauna, especially for restoration projects. I’ve been able to apply the plant taxonomy knowledge I gained in the course, to my work and encourage the use of natives and the removal of non-native and invasive plants in our project areas.”

Chelsea uses her cave diving skills and ecological education as a volunteer with a springs conservation group and spends lots of time in the water, diving and collecting data.  Data obtained from below the spring’s surface, inside the cave system, is used to identify changes in water chemistry and provides important information to help government officials make decisions about nearby land use changes.

Also an accomplished photographer, Chelsea has a part-time photography business and likes to use images to tell stories. Particularly with regard to springs, these images can help people care about places they wouldn’t otherwise see. Long term, she would like to use her photography skills to help with other resource conservation projects.

FMNP courses provide an opportunity for learning, sharing, and connecting

When asked what she valued most about her experience with FMNP courses, Chelsea cites the diversity of the students. “We had such a wide range of people in class, and unlike traditional academic settings, everyone was there because they wanted to learn. The student diversity encouraged on-topic discussions, which fosters an incredible environment for learning.”

In reflecting on the structure of the program, with its mix of classroom learning, field excursions, and student projects, Chelsea commented, “The FMNP courses are a great way to learn about our native environments and meet a wide variety of people. Learning environments with active student engagement are where real discussions are had and where learning really happens.”

Learning environments with active student engagement are where real discussions are had and where learning really happens.

She particularly enjoyed the opportunity to network with fellow students of all ages and backgrounds. She recommends the program, hands-down.  Recently promoted to a management position where she supervises project managers and field staff, she plans to encourage everyone on her staff to take advantage of the FMNP courses. “Knowing how to identify native species vs. invasive species is a must. And what an opportunity to learn with like-minded, interested students.”

Become a Florida Master Naturalist!

Interested in joining a Florida Master Naturalist Program course to see what all the hype is about? Register for an available course near you, or learn more about the program. You can also apply for a scholarship here. Read a graduate success story to learn how this program impacts the lives of students and their communities. Stay in the know and find out when UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is offering FMNP courses! Sign up for Nature News, the Ecology and Natural Resources Program’s newsletter. Graduates from a FMNP class may also join their local Friends of FMNP group to continue learning, creating community, and supporting conservation locally! Friends events in Sarasota County are shared via our Nature News newsletter.

Meet Suzy Nolan, Volunteer Extraordinaire

Indianapolis native Suzy Nolan grew up hiking and observing nature, but it wasn’t until the travel demands of her international food business career slowed down that she began to seek more in-depth knowledge of the natural world. With a degree in biology and more time on her hands, she started a camping group and led monthly trips to state parks. Reading the signage at various parks sparked an interest in learning as much as she could. And learn she did! To date, Suzy has completed seven Florida Master Naturalist courses – the three core modules, plus Wildlife Monitoring, Habitat Evaluation, Environmental Interpretation, and Invasive Plants. Suzy uses this information to enlighten her hiking/camping companions about what they’re seeing on the trail, teaching them about plant identification and animal behavior.

In a general sense, nature is always on my mind.

Where Science and Art Meet

A keen observer, Suzy uses nature journaling to record what she sees on field excursions. She learned about this practice from a fellow student in the FMNP Freshwater Systems course, and ever since,  it has helped hone her skills as both an artist and scientific observer. “In a general sense, nature is always on my mind. Whether it is a plant trying to squeeze up through a sidewalk or I am immersed in a remote natural area, I’m interested in knowing what it is and why it is there.”

Program Offers Value Well Beyond the Classroom

When asked about the value of the program, Suzy says, “It will change your perspective on the natural world around you and allow you to enjoy and experience each moment outdoors.” Because of this, she believes some form of the program should be incorporated into the high school curriculum. “The training is so important in helping you think about everything you do that can potentially impact the environment.”

Knowledge Benefits Community

Suzy volunteers with Florida State Parks, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, Big Waters Land Trust, and Sarasota Audubon Society and is seeking opportunities to use her science background and FMNP knowledge to assist with scientific studies and restoration activities. She reports that she has looked at Master Naturalist programs in other states, but most are not nearly as thorough. “The Florida program is one of the premier programs in the country and I am so fortunate to be a part of it.”

The Florida program is one of the premier programs in the country and I am so fortunate to be a part of it.

And we are fortunate to have Suzy as a program participant and volunteer! You may see Suzy at one of our community events, sharing her love of all things natural and FMNP with the public, or wandering the trails of Sarasota County and Florida State Parks.

Become a Florida Master Naturalist!

Interested in joining a Florida Master Naturalist Program course to see what all the hype is about? Register for an available course near you, or learn more about the program. You can also apply for a scholarship here. Read a graduate success story to learn how this program impacts the lives of students and their communities. Stay in the know and find out when UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is offering FMNP courses! Sign up for Nature News, the Ecology and Natural Resources Program’s newsletter. Graduates from a FMNP class may also join their local Friends of FMNP group to continue learning, creating community, and supporting conservation locally! SunCoast Friends of the FMNP events in Sarasota County are shared via our Nature News newsletter.

This year, our FAB in-person annual retreat occurred in November, and was held at the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) in New Smyrna Beach.  As a part of our retreat, we also participate in professional development. This year the FAB learned about the Marine Discovery Center, its mission, and some of their awesome restoration projects and partnerships from their executive director, Chad Truxall. Chad also serves as the current President of the FMNP Advisory Board. MDC began offering the FMNP Coastal Ecosystem classes in 2001, and has graduated more than 800 Coastal Naturalists in the last 23 years. These individuals use this certification as nature guides, educators and rangers, as well as to become better-informed residents of coastal communities throughout Florida.

Restoration and Research at the Marine Discovery Center (MDC)

Marine Discovery Center’s current site was formerly occupied by New Smyrna Beach High School. In 2011, the site was acquired by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Foundation for the purposes of marine education and conservation. MDC was the perfect fit to operate the center. MDC celebrated it 27th anniversary this year, and over the past 13 years a lot has happened at the current site, including some of the restoration and research projects we were able to visit and learn about first hand.

Our first stop was the Native Wildflower Garden, made possible through a grant from the  Florida Wildflower Foundation and the beautiful Butterfly Garden, built by the New Smyrna Beach Men’s Garden Club. This landscape features native plants to attract butterflies as well as a relaxing shaded seating area for butterfly viewing. Native plants are adapted to the Florida environment, needing less water and little to no fertilizer, and provide habitat for our Florida wildlife. Surprises await visitors to these gardens, perhaps encountering a beautiful wildflower in bloom, a gopher tortoise quietly munching on his breakfast, a butterfly fluttering by, or one of the beautiful mosaics created and donated by Chad’s mother-in-law.

MDC’s demonstration garden

Mosaic in garden

Gopher tortoise in native plant garden

We continued along the walking trail, to view the latest restoration project completed in July 2024. 32,000 square feet of parking lot have been converted into a living shoreline along the edge of the 5-acre salt marsh. Not only did this project decrease the amount of impervious pavement, it creates a buffer between the existing pavement and the salt marsh. We then summitted Mount Morgan, which provides a wonderful view of New Smyrna Beach and beyond. In 2014, this 30.1 foot high mound was made from the material dredged from the surrounding area that was once a track and football field. The previous sports field has now become a vibrant and vital mangrove forest which provides opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing. You can even spot the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse from the top!

Allowed a rare behind-the-scenes tour of some of their new collaborative projects, we learned about an aquaculture project where they are growing out clams and seagrass that will be used to repopulate the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding waters. Clams, like oysters, are filter feeders and not only provide a food source and structure within the underwater environment, but also help improve water quality. Marine Discovery Center is also working with partners and volunteers to grow mangrove seedlings and build artificial reef structures for oyster restoration which are being used within their living shoreline projects.

Clam and seagrass aquaculture project

Mangrove seedling project

Oyster restoration project

We completed our very full first day by meeting at the top of Mount Morgan to watch the sun set over the 5-acres of salt marsh and mangrove forest that once was the previous football field. The next morning, we kayaked through the mangroves witnessing wading birds, shoreline restoration projects, an underwater forensic research project, and so much more! Marine Discovery Center is open to the public. Learn more about their variety of educational experiences and tours for all ages.

Not only did the FMNP Advisory Board strategically plan for the upcoming year and start discussing the program’s 25th anniversary, which will occur in 2026, but we had an amazing opportunity for professional development focused on coastal ecosystem restoration. This annual retreat also provides important time to network with and learn from other Florida Master Naturalist Program instructors and graduates, Dr. Marty Main, program lead, and Caitlin Robinson, program coordinator.

Join us for a FMNP course!

The Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is an adult education program developed by the University of Florida and provided by participating organizations. FMNP training will benefit any persons interested in learning more about Florida’s environment, seeking educational contact hours, or wishing to increase their knowledge for use in education programs as volunteers, employees, ecotourism guides, and others. The mission of the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is to promote awareness, understanding, and respect of Florida’s natural world among Florida’s citizens and visitors. The FMNP teaches those who teach others about Florida’s unique ecosystems and wildlife.

UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County teaches all 11 FMNP courses spread out over 2-3 years. The 3 core courses are 40-hours each and focus on the main ecosystems in Florida: coastal, freshwater, and uplands. 8 other courses provide 24-hours each of education, hands-on experiences and field trips focused on specific skills or topics ranging from invasive plants, environmental interpretation, wildlife monitoring, and ecosystem restoration. Other partners teach FMNP courses throughout the state, courses can be taken in any order at any location. To learn more about current offerings visit https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/fmnp/.

Dr. Katherine Clements, ecology and natural resources educator, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is a FMNP lead instructor and is President Emeritus on the FMNP Advisory Board.

Yes indeed! The American alligator is one of Florida’s most iconic examples of native wildlife with an estimated population of 1.5 million alligators in Florida, that’s almost 1 alligator for every 20 humans!

Alligators can be found in almost any fresh or brackish water bodies throughout Sarasota, including the notable Myakka River. These native reptiles are essential to our ecosystem. They help control populations of specific species by consuming fish, turtles, birds, small mammals, and even invasive species, promoting a harmonious balance within our ecosystem. Additionally, alligators play a vital role in creating and sustaining wetland habitats through their activities, which benefit numerous other species such as threatened and endangered fish and amphibians. Because of this, they are considered keystone species, ecosystem engineers, and an indicator species of the health of wetlands such as the Everglades. Alligator numbers have rebounded since being listed as an endangered species decades ago, but they are still protected by law. It is illegal to feed, harass, possess, or kill them. Hunting is only allowed by permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Mating Behavior and Florida’s Dry Season: Increased Activity

Understanding alligator behavior is crucial for their existence and minimizing interactions with them,  particularly during their mating season which corresponds to our dry season. Alligator movements increase during the months of March – June as they look for mates and move from drying water bodies to larger ones in which they can submerge and find food. Courtship activities typically start in March or April, and are characterized by displays of head-slapping on the water’s surface and low-frequency vocalizations to attract females. Mating occurs from May to June, increasing the likelihood of seeing or encountering an alligator. Male alligators become territorial as they compete for mates. After mating, females will remain with their nests and will hiss or display mouth opening to fend off intruders. It is essential to exercise caution and keep a safe distance from alligators all year round, but especially during these months. 

Normal Alligator Behavior

It is normal for alligators to:

• move from one body of water to another, sometimes this means crossing a road, your yard, or a golf course. Likelihood of seeing alligators on the move increases during the months of March – June, and can also be more likely during times of high rainfall or flooding.
• bask in the sun to warm up and increase their metabolism. This can occur on the banks of stormwater retention ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams as well as on areas of grass.
• move quickly into the water if they feel threatened. Alligators may make a big splash or noise getting into the water, but this is where they feel most safe.

Abnormal Alligator Behavior

It is abnormal for an alligator to show excessive interest in a human or pet by swimming directly towards you. Alligators may turn in the water or on land to look at you, but they should not directly approach you. This is a sign that they are probably associating you with an easy meal and have lost their natural fear of humans.

Nuisance Alligators

Alligators can become “nuisance gators” when they associate people with food. Feeding alligators causes them to loose their natural fear of humans and associate us with a readily available source of food. They are then more likely to approach the next adult, child, or pet that they see, putting human  and pet safety at risk. Remember, “A fed gator is a dead gator”. If you encounter a nuisance alligator, report it to the FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286). Wildlife authorities rarely relocate alligators. This option is unlikely due to limited habitat, resources, and lack of success. In most cases, alligators are euthanized. To avoid the unnecessary use of resources or euthanasia of wildlife, call the nuisance gator hotline only if an alligator is  over 4 feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets or property. Most communities and HOAs prefer that if you do call the FWC nuisance gator hotline, you then alert the management office in your community.

Be part of the solution!

Learn more about normal and abnormal alligator behavior and how you can make the best choices to minimize interactions with alligators, keeping yourself, your family and pets, and wildlife safe:

Watch the 30-minute alligator webinar on Sarasota Starter Kit: A Guide to Living on the Suncoast, a series that provide essential information to new and current residents of the Suncoast. You can also check out the Sarasota County Starter Kit blog series.

Webinars and further resources are available on over 140 species of wildlife (including alligators) at our Florida Wildlife webpage.

Register for Neighborhood Best Practices an online, self-paced course that provides videos, fact sheets, resource links and more on topics from wildlife interactions to preservation areas, from water quality to sustainable landscapes to foster thriving, informed, and sustainable communities.

Join a Florida Master Naturalist Program class: an adult education program developed by the University of Florida. FMNP training benefits anyone interested in learning more about Florida’s environment, seeking educational contact hours, or wishing to increase their knowledge for use in education programs as volunteers, employees, ecotourism guides, and others.

Learn more about Living with Alligators from FWC.

Other Series of Interest

“Wild Sarasota” blog series Enjoy blogs on identification, life history, and fun facts about our native wildlife.

Wild and Scenic: A Day in the Life of a Biologist on the Myakka River blog series

“Stories of Gratitude for the World of Wildlife” blog series

“Under Threat” blog series

Wide-ranging, wacky, and most certainly wonderful, Florida is host to some of the most diverse wildlife in our country. The Wild Sarasota blog series and webinars cover wildlife native to Florida, focusing on species found right here in Sarasota County. Explore all the topics on our Florida Wildlife webpage, navigate to the entire blog series, or check out the individual blog titles below to learn more!

About the Series

Wild Sarasota is a series created by the Ecology and Natural Resources program at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County to foster connection with and conservation of Sarasota’s wildlife. Highlighting local fauna (and sometimes flora), the series began as in-person classes, transitioned to webinars during COVID-19, and now has the addition of a web page with complementary blogs and resource links. The hour-long webinars provide a comprehensive view of each subject covering natural history, identification, conservation status, and so much more. The blog series breaks things up into smaller bites.

Below is a full list of hyperlinked blogs by category. We encourage you to explore the rabbit hole of Sarasota’s wildlife.

Content Overview

Birds:

NEW!!: Building a Screech Owl Box

NEW!!: Wild Turkeys

Florida’s Raptors

Enraptured by Eagles

Eagle Etiquette

Hawks

Fantastic Falcons

Owl Adaptations

Herons

Florida’s Engaging Egrets

Florida’s Wading Birds and the Plume Trade: A Conservation Story

Wonderful Wading Birds

Sandhill Cranes Stand Out

Wacky Woodpeckers of Florida

Watch Out for Woodpeckers

Florida Scrub-jay: Teenagers help out around the nest!

2023 Bird of the Year: Belted Kingfisher

Our Beautiful Hummingbirds

Mammals:

ComBATting bat myths

Cunning coyotes

White-tailed deer

Feline Faces of Florida

Reptiles:

Alligators: nuisance or neighbors

Gopher Tortoise: Celebrate a keystone species: make your yard gopher tortoise-friendly!

NEW!!: Turtle Talk

NEW!!: Florida’s Venomous Snakes: Part 1

NEW!!: Florida’s Venomous Snakes: Part 2

NEW!!: Lizard Land

Check here for new Wild Sarasota blogs!

We hope you’ve enjoyed this series. To explore more resources pertaining to these topics, head over to our Florida Wildlife webpage for webinars and curated links to resources for further learning.

Other series you may find of interest:

Stories of Gratitude for the World of Wildlife

Under Threat

We are excited to have Zahir Ringgold Cordes joining our team as the Ecology and Natural Resources Environmental Education and Outreach Program Assistant.

Zahir is eager to give back to both the human and ecological communities of Sarasota County. After moving to Oregon to work as the Portland Audubon chapter’s Youth and Family Partnerships and Education Specialist, she was inspired to move back to the Sarasota area and find new ways to be more engaged in the environmental education and natural resources fields here.

Community Connections Lead to Exciting New Opportunities

At UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, Zahir will work closely with Dr. Katherine Clements to support community engagement and education efforts for the Ecology and Natural Resources Program. Zahir first met Dr. Clements when she was a participant in UF/IFAS Extension’s Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP).

While taking the FMNP freshwater systems module, Zahir was inspired by the facilitators’ extensive knowledge and experience. Each day after class, she would return home and excitedly share the unique and wondrous things she learned with her family. Swamps that once seemed dark and uninviting now lit up with the faces of familiar species of plants and trees, welcoming her in with opportunities for exploration, connection, and peace. After her class took a private tour of Myakka River State Park with a seasoned park ranger, she discovered that tiny carnivorous plants, bright pink in color and the size of a penny, could be seen dotting the ground in special wetland habitats.

The knowledge and experiences that Zahir gained from participating in the Master Naturalist program deepened her relationship with and appreciation for the unique ecology and habitats of our state. Florida is truly full of natural wonders, and the Master Naturalist program not only connects learners to the beauty around them, it also inspires and prepares them to be better stewards of this special place that we call home.

During training and activities in this program, participants often make lasting connections with other like-minded community members. In Zahir’s case, it led to her applying for an exciting opportunity to join our team. (Learn how to become a Florida Master Naturalist.)

A Running Start!

On her second day, Zahir was able to meet several community members and leaders at the Deer Prairie Creek Preserve ribbon cutting ceremony. There, county commissioners, officials, and lovers of this beautiful natural preserve celebrated its reopening after the hurricane, as well as the unveiling of a new accessible kayak launch, a fishing pier, and an improved pedestrian and bicyclist bridge.

Managed by both Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, this preserve protects important habitat along both Deer Prairie Creek and a portion of the wild and scenic Myakka River. Among the abundant wildlife that use this area are river otters, gopher tortoises, and threatened Florida scrub-jays.

Visit Deer Prairie Creek Preserve and enjoy 60-plus miles of natural trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and myriad opportunities to view native wildlife for your next adventure.

Family-Friendly Fun

For her first Saturday on the job, Zahir joined Dr. Clements and Jackie Lebouitz, water resources program assistant at Sarasota County Extension, at the Wild About Nature Festival, organized by the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. The team shared with more than 100 youth and adults an array of fun, educational games, photo displays and skulls of local wildlife, and art-based activities. We hope to see you there next year.

Learn more about our local wildlife at the Sarasota County Extension Florida Wildlife web page, or visit the Conservation Foundation’s Wild About Nature page.

To find more outings or classes from Sarasota County Extension, visit our Eventbrite page.

After a busy first two weeks, Zahir is looking forward to meeting and connecting with more members of the community, and providing encouraging, fun, and welcoming opportunities for a range of audiences to enjoy and learn about the amazing natural world around us.

Join us in welcoming Zahir! 

On December 10, 2022 the American Birding Association announced that the 2023 Bird of the Year is a female belted kingfisher! Watch the reveal of this coming year’s bird dedication ceremony and the unveiling of the art work created by the Bird of the Year artist, Liz Clayton Fuller. 

Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon)

Belted kingfishers are unmistakable when seen perching on wires or branches near their freshwater dining locations. Their hovering flight with rapid wing beats as they search for food near waterways before plunging head first to spear their prey with their bill is also a telltale characteristic. These slate grey birds are about the size of a robin, but are stocky with a large head crowned with a shaggy crest of feathers, a thick bill, and have a short tail and short legs. White bands can be seen on their wings and tails when in flight. Males have a slate grey-blue band on their breasts. Females are similar in size and coloration, but also have a rust-colored band across their belly. Juveniles will have rusty spotting around belly and chest.

They snack on a diet almost entirely of fish but will also eat a variety of tasty treats such as crayfish, shellfish, insects, frogs, snakes and lizards, and even a small bird or mammal or berries! Generally hunting from a perch above the water or hovering in the air, the kingfisher will dive and grab its prey, landing back on its perch to pound it against its landing before swallowing it whole.

Belted kingfishers are year-round residents in most of the United States, including North and Central Florida. A bit further south of us and throughout the southwest, these beautiful birds migrate from Canada and the northern states to spend the cold winter months where the waters that provide them food do not freeze.

Fun Facts:

Kingfishers dig a burrow to nest in the vertical banks of streams and will even nest in man-made sand and gravel pits. The burrow can be 3-6 feet long with a nesting chamber at the end!

One of the few birds where the female has more showy coloration than the male!

As young birds, belted kingfishers can digest the skeletons and exoskeletons of their prey, but as adults their physiology changes and they must regurgitate those bits up as a pellet, just like owls! Read more about owls here.

Beware, kingfishers may visit your backyard pond to consume fish you may have there!

According to The Cornell Lab All About Birds the oldest known fossil of this bird was found right here in Alachua County, Florida 600,000 years ago!

Learn more:

One of the best way to learn about birds is to watch them in their natural habitat! Check out our Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources natural areas preserves and your local Sarasota Audubon Society and Venice Area Audubon Society locations as both are near bodies of water where you might find a belted kingfisher looking for its next meal! You can often see them in neighborhoods perched on wires near backyard ponds or roadside ditches or even near the beach!

Want to learn more about the birds and other wildlife in Sarasota County, Florida? Check out our Florida Wildlife webpage with links to webinars, blogs, and other resources!

The Cornell Lab All About Birds website is an amazing treasure trove of birding information!

Read all our Wild Sarasota blogs here

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the global leading authority on the status of biological diversity, declared monarch butterflies endangered this week.

According to the IUCN, both the western and eastern monarch populations have declined significantly. Western monarchs are thought to have declined an astounding 99.9% percent in just four decades, from around 10 million in the 1980s to less than 2,000 in 2021. Eastern monarchs are faring “better” with a decline of 84% in the past three decades.

This past winter, a community-science count of western monarchs at their California nesting grounds, led by the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, saw an increase in population counts: 250,000 butterflies were recorded, up from 1,914 in 2021. Although, this still represents a significant decline from millions of western monarchs in the 1980s.

Mighty Migrators!

Monarchs are the only butterfly known to have a roundtrip migration, similar to birds. Flying 50-100 miles a day, these tiny Lepidoptera travel up to 3,000 miles to get to a warmer winter home, where they roost in large colonies in forests, up to a mile above sea level! Eastern populations migrate to the mountains of Mexico, and western populations overwinter in southern California. Scientists are still trying to understand how monarchs navigate, but believe they utilize the Earth’s magnetic field and the position of the sun.

Biggest Threats to Monarchs (Danaus plexippus)

• Habitat Destruction: Monarchs need large trees in their wintering locations in which to roost together. They also need their host plant, milkweed (Asclepius spp.) where they reside and along their migratory pathways.
• Pesticide Use: Use of pesticides on crops and in our landscapes has been linked to monarch mortality.
• Non-native species of Milkweed: Tropical milkweed (Asclepius curassavica) grown outside of its native range may be impacting the breeding cycle of monarchs which may increase the risk of infection with and transmission of a deadly parasite Ophryocystis elektroscirrha.

  

• Climate Change: Hurricanes, drought, and other forms of severe weather affect the monarchs ability to successfully complete their migration. Extreme temperatures can also be a cause of death.
• Parasite Infestation: Ophryocystis elektroscirrha is a protozoan parasite that can damage wing development during the pupal stage, leading to weakness and death. Learn more about this at MonarchJointVenture.org.

What You Can Do to Help

• Plant native milkweed species: Not only will adult monarchs nectar at milkweeds (and other plants), lay their eggs on the leaves, but the monarch caterpillars (larva) must eat milkweed leaves in order to grow and pupate. The pupa, or chrysalis, can also be found on the plant, and in many locations! Learn more about milkweeds and which to plant in your Florida garden Here. Choose native milkweed species (see photo below) over those that may be more commercially available.

  

• Decrease pesticide use: Use integrative pest management techniques that rely on pesticide use as a last resort. Always follow the label and minimize use, so that our pollinators and other beneficial insects can thrive!
• Support smart growth and development to minimize habitat loss: Growth and development will continue, but making smart choices that allow for green corridors and stopover for our birds, butterflies, and wildlife will improve their chances of survival!
• Support conservation that protects wildlife habitat and corridors

Asclepius tuberosa (Butterfly weed). A Florida native milkweed. Fritzflohrreynolds, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

To Learn More About Monarchs:

About monarchs from UF/IFAS, visit https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN780

About milkweed species native to Florida, visit https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/milkweed.html

For more about Monarch conservation, visit The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation.

Visit MonarchJointVenture.org to learn more about monarch migration, life cycle, habitat, and more!

Want to Learn More About Florida Wildlife?

Visit our Florida Wildlife webpage and learn about over 70 species of wildlife or Watch our Wild Sarasota webinar series!

Read all our Wild Sarasota blogs HERE

National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) is an international event to raise awareness about invasive species, the threat that they pose, and what can be done to prevent their spread. Almost a third of Florida’s plants are non-native, and although only about 10% become invasive (causing harm to the environment, economy, or to human health), their impacts are immense. Invasive animals such as feral hogs, Burmese pythons, and invasive lizards also threaten our unique and sensitive ecosystems. Raise your awareness and help be part of the solution by joining an event, workday, or webinar!

Have you ever heard of an iguana rodeo?

Read on and join the virtual rodeo from Feb. 27 through March 05!

Suncoast CISMA is inviting local nature enthusiasts to win prizes and acclaim for tracking down invasive lizards. The Suncoast Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) is a volunteer organization focused on stemming the impacts of invasive species in the Tampa Bay and Sarasota Area. This year they’re hosting a virtual event where you can go out in your neighborhood or take a trip to local beaches and parks to locate invasive lizards. Download the IVEGOT1 app on android or apple devices to take pictures of iguanas, tegus, and chameleons to report sightings and their location. The goal of the event is to get a clearer picture of where these lizards live in our area.

Invasive lizards like Argentine black and white tegus, green iguanas, and black spiny tailed iguanas, outnumber our native lizards by 3:1! They impact infrastructure by undermining seawalls, patios and pools with their burrow digging. They outcompete native gopher tortoises for food and even eat the eggs of tortoises, ground nesting birds and the threatened Florida scrub-jay. Iguanas carry salmonella and may be aggressive, posing a danger to people.

Register for the Iguana Rodeo HERE

Learn More about our Regional Suncoast CISMA HERE

How about a weed wrangle?

In conjunction with NISAW, the Florida Invasive Species Partnership is hosting the Second Annual Weed Wrangle®, a month long, at-home initiative to encourage Floridians to remove invasive plants from home and privately managed landscapes.

 To participate:

1. During the month of February, remove one or more invasive plants from your landscape (be sure to take a before and after photo)
2. Complete this simple 4 question form
3. Email one before and one after photo of plant removal to ecbell@ufl.edu

 All participants who complete the three steps above will be entered into a random prize drawing.

What is a weed?  The term weed can have different meanings to different people, in this case we are referring specifically to invasive plants in your landscape.  For guidance, refer to species listed in the 2019 FLEPPC List (both category I and II)

Plant native! We encourage you to replace invasive plants with native plants in your landscape.  Learn more about why this matters from the Florida Native Plant Society and locate native plant vendors near you through the Florida Association of Native Nurseries.

Want to keep learning?

Join Dr. Katherine Clements, Ecology and natural resources educator for UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County and co-chair of Suncoast CISMA, for an in-person walk about Invasive Species on Friday (Feb. 25). Registration is limited and required. Register HERE

Watch the UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County webinar series on Invasive Species HERE

Watch educational webinars from NAISMA on priority invasive species issues the week of NISAW and every 3rd Wednesday HERE

More information about National Invasive Species Awareness Week HERE

Easily report invasive species online or on the I’ve Got 1 app for your smart phone at https://www.eddmaps.org/florida/report/

Fire Fest is a fun opportunity for the whole family to learn how fire is used carefully and effectively on our natural lands, right here in Sarasota County. It looks at how prescribed burns protect our communities and property from wildfires and maintains Florida’s natural ecosystems for present and future generations.

Do you ever wonder why you see all those smoke columns across the horizon? Agencies from around the state come together to talk fire. Weather permitting, enjoy live fire demonstrations, helicopter bucket drops, nature tours, and light refreshments. Kids will have a blast on the SWAT obstacle course, and will enjoy fun games and face painting in the KidZone.

Fire Fest 2022 event details

Prescribed Fire in Florida

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried and the Florida Forest Service issued the following release Jan. 24 about prescribed fire across the state:

Learn More

• Wild Sarasota: Prescribed Fire (Keeping Our Community and Ecosystems Safe), UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County (webinar recording)
• Wildfire Prevention, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County (blog post)
• Prescribed Fire, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
• Wildland Fire, Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences

Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus)

The rufous hummingbird is an uncommon sighting in our area, with multiple SRQ bird alerts going out earlier this week of sightings and photos of this regal species here at Twin Lakes Park. Birders have been milling about the Park, outside our office, and in our pollinator garden searching for a fleeting sight of such a spectacular species.

Phenomenally feisty and flighty

Males are bright orange, while females sport plumage of orange and green. This species is fiesty and territorial, attacking other species of hummingbirds and even small mammals like squirrels. They are only about 3 inches long, and may beat their tiny wings up to 60x a second as they travel almost 4,000 miles during migration. They are more common in the west, breeding as far north as Alaska and migrating as far south as Mexico, but occasionally show up along the Gulf Coast and Southeastern US coast during the winter.During migration,they may stop and rest in an area for 1-2 weeks before continuing their journey south.

This species will visit hummingbird feeders, but enjoy tubular flowers of plants such as fireweed, which we have planted about our grounds. They also get protein to fuel their frantic flight from eating small flying insects and aphids. Learn more about what to plant to make your yard hummingbird friendly: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW059

With any luck, come visit our Sarasota County Extension office and see what treasures you may find. Don’t forget to stop in and ask a Master Gardener at the plant desk for help, or let us know if you sight one of these beautiful, yet feisty, birds! Good luck!

For more info on Rufous hummingbirds:

• https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Rufous_Hummingbird/id
• https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/rufous-hummingbird?site=fl&section=search_results

On September 29, 2021 in recognition of the 31st anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and as part of “Take A Child Outside Week”, we participated in an event called “Finding Peace in Difficult Times”. This public webinar focused on mental health impacts of Covid-19 and strategies for wellness. Included was a discussion on the benefits of spending time in nature for youth and adults, and a virtual shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing” activity.

Read more below, or Watch the Presentation Here

Mental Health Challenges in the Covid-19 Era

As we enter the nineteenth month of our global COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to take the opportunity to consider the impact such a long-term traumatic experience has had on our mental health. We are all experiencing some form of collective grief both for the nearly 700,000 lives lost and for the way we lived our lives before cancellations, masks, social distancing, and Zoom, interrupted our well-worn routines. But could this also be a time to re-evaluate our priorities and place our mental health and well-being at the top of the list?

Because nearly everyone has confronted some mental health concerns throughout this unusual period in our history, from feeling out of control and unsure of our safety, to worrying about loved ones, or financial woes. In some sense this has made it much easier to address these issues head on. If everyone is facing the same thing, it is easier to talk about stress, fear, and anxiety more openly and assume at least a base level of understanding among friends, family, and co-workers. We have also seen public figures begin to speak much more openly about their own mental health struggles, particularly during the pandemic, including Michelle Obama, Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Michael Phelps.

Bringing daylight to mental health concerns is a huge step forward that may have long-term effects on our collective future well-being. In the meantime, on a personal level, we each must remember to take care of ourselves just as much as we care for others.

The Importance of Self-Care

Self-care is critical to reduce our stress, increase our resiliency, and replenish ourselves so that we can continue to work, play, and take care of others. Finding a balance between all the factors in our lives is the key!

Here are self-care tips from the CDC:

• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media.
• Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, exercise, get plenty of sleep, and give yourself a break if you feel stressed out.
• Take care of your body.
  • Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
  • Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of sleep.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco, and substance use.
• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
• Talk to others. Share your problems and how you are feeling and coping with a parent, friend, counselor, doctor, or pastor.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
• Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol. These may seem to help, but they can create additional problems and increase the stress you are already feeling.
• Recognize when you need more help.

Shinrin-yoku

Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese practice that began in 1982, but has gained notoriety recently due to being featured when the Olympics were held in Tokyo. Shinrin-yoku translates loosely as “forest bathing”. The idea is to get outside and fully immerse one’s self in nature. Shinrin-yoku is a practice of using all your senses, slowing down, and experiencing mindfulness. Spending time in nature, meditation, and specifically shinrin-yoku (a blend of both), have shown many benefits to both your physical and mental health.

Participate in a virtual shinrin yoku activity below, or visit EventBrite.com to sign up for an in-person shinrin-yoku walk in Sarasota County:

Panelists

Dr. Kathy Moore, Executive Director of the Florida Mental Health Institute (FMHI) of the University of South Florida (USF) and Dr. Amanda Sharp, USF faculty affiliated with FMHI, are health psychologists and researchers who focus on person-centered care. They discussed what the research is indicating in terms of the dramatic impacts COVID-19 has had on our mental health. Strategies were shared to enhance our well-being in trying times.

Dr. Katherine Clements, Ecology and Natural Resources Educator at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, spoke about the benefits of spending time in nature and mindfulness, and offered a shirin-yoku (forest-bathing) mindfulness experience.

Bonnie Silvestri, Sarasota County’s Ethics and Compliance Specialist and ADA Coordinator moderated the program, which was sponsored by Sarasota County Libraries’ Northport Library Manager Alicia Diaz.

September 24-30 was “Take A Child Outside Week”. UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County partnered with multiple agencies to offer opportunities for families to participate in nature-based experiences. If you missed out on any of those opportunities we invite you to find your own adventures on the list below. It includes 31 activities in Sarasota County to explore with your family or on your own. That’s enough for an entire month of adventures!

Health Benefits of Nature

While you’re out having fun and connecting with family in nature, also know that you and your family are benefiting physically and mentally!

Multiple studies have shown a direct link between nature and improvements in both mental and physical health, including:

• increased physical activity, so important to combat the rising rates of obesity and diabetes in our youth. Cardiovascular activity is also linked with academic success!
• decreased heart rate and blood pressure
• decreased cortisol levels (cortisol is a hormone produced during stress)

  

• improved immunity
• improved engagement in academics
• decreased school absences
• increased self-discipline and impulse control: this leads to an increased ability to delay gratification, another predictor of academic success and resiliency
• increased self-confidence
• improved leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills
• reduction in the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
• decreased anxiety, depression, and aggression
• improved mood and attention
• increased feelings of awe, gratitude, and selflessness

A Month of Nature-based Activities

Below is a list of 31 nature-based family activities in Sarasota County. Enough for every day for a month! Explore and Enjoy!

1. Check out an Explore Your World backpack for free from your local Sarasota County Library and go explore!
2. Find the owls located on the trails at Pine Craft Park.
3. Go skim boarding at Lido Beach.
4. Go snorkeling at Nokomis Beach.
5. Kayak the mangrove tunnels and relax at the island at Ted Sperling Nature Park.
6. Take a bike ride on the Legacy Trail.
7. Park your car at Oscar Scherer State Park and bike for ice cream in downtown Venice.
8. Catch and release crabs at the North Siesta Key Bridge at low tide. Don’t forget to look out for dolphins at Nora Patterson Bay Island Park too.

   

9. Bring nets to catch grasshoppers along the trails at Jelks Preserve.
10. Hike the loop along the Myakka River at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North.
11. Snorkel at Siesta’s Point of Rocks (Park at Beach Access 12).
12. Go dip netting in the seagrass flats at Ken Thompson Park.
13. Explore the beaches and boardwalks at Quick Point Nature Preserve on Longboat Key.
14. Look for sharks’ teeth at Manasota Beach.

    

15. Play frisbee golf at North Water Tower Park.
16. Take your dog out for a run at the dog park at Lakeview Park.
17. Skateboard at Payne Skate Park.
18. Check out the boats and then relax on a swing while the kids play on the playground at Bayfront Park and Marina.
19. Go fishing at Tony Saprito Fishing Pier.
20. Look for turtles and ducks in the pond at Arlington Park.
21. Bring a picnic dinner to Phillippi Estate Park, then walk the short trail and play on the playground.

    

22. Explore the scrub and flatwoods at Old Miakka Preserve.
23. Find a tree to hug at Red Bug Slough Preserve.
24. Walk the mangrove trail at The Bay Park.
25. Take a picnic dinner and watch a sunset at Bay Preserve at Osprey.
26. Explore the canopy walk, take a bike ride along the park road, look for alligators at the bridge, or look for birds at the boardwalk at Myakka River State Park.
27. Paddle the southern Myakka River from Snook Haven (and stay for lunch or dinner).

    

28. Kayak along the creek at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve.
29. Fly a kite at Siesta Beach.
30. Hike the hill and bring your binoculars to look for birds at Celery Fields Regional Stormwater Facility.
31. Walk the trail and look for deer at Rothenbach Park.

For more nature-based opportunities Register for one of our classes, enjoy a virtual shinrin yoku (forest-bathing) experience, or learn more with our LIFE: Science Short videos.

Contributors also include: Lee Hayes Byron, County Extension Director; Abbey Tyrna, Water Resources Agent; and Sara Kane, Sustainability Program Supervisor for UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County